Topeka’s got talent. Another local dancer will be going to Vegas after auditioning last night on the national FOX TV show So You Think You Can Dance.

Taylor Clark, 19, of Topeka has been training at The Dance Factory since she was three years old.

15 years later the local dance star is taking center stage on national television, on So You Think You Can Dance.

“I’m happy, scared, excited, all kinds of emotions so I am excited for it and hopefully something good turns out of it,” Clark says.

It’s a dream Clark says wouldn’t be possible without the training and support at The Dance Factory.

“I think this studio is incredible and so many amazing dancers come out of the studio and I definitely do think that says a lot for the studio,” Clark says.

Owner Tarah Kemper says at the studio, dancers aren’t just learning about dance – they’re learning about life.

“School teachers only get your kids for a year, we grow up with your kids so it’s hard to let them go when they’re 18 and you’ve been with them for 15 years, you’ve been through a lot,” Kemper says.

She adds that Clark’s experience will inspire younger dancers to follow their dreams.

“I think she’s set an awesome example for kids in Topeka to know that a show that millions of people to look up to, non dancers and dancers alike, are into this show, it’s so successful because of that and she’s made it real,” Kemper says.

“It’s definitely great to be able to be a positive role model for them and show them how rewarding it is to work so hard and push them even harder,” Clark adds.

After spending a year at Kansas State University, Clark has decided to pursue a career as a professional dancer in Los Angeles.